by Carole Brown
It’s easy to get into a sluggish routine during the winter season. To fall into habits we shouldn’t have. Our health is vital and important to our jobs as servants of the High King! Here are five ways that can help us, as much as possible, to be at the top physically:
Eat well. Sounds obvious, doesn’t it? But in the winter months, it’s oh so easy to allow ourselves comfort foods that are, perhaps, delicious, but filled with fat, salt and sugar. Instead, focus on eating soups and stews loaded with veggies and lean cuts of meat. Be sure to include fruits and vegetables packed with vitamins and minerals.
Stay hydrated. With the cooler weather, it’s easy to forget that our need for water doesn’t diminish. Try for at least two liters a day. If your taste for plain water isn’t abundant, then go for herbal teas.
Get plenty of sleep. Proper sleep can help keep the body’s immune system healthy and to fight off colds. Alcohol, cigarettes and caffeine can affect one’s sleep, so avoid these. If you have trouble falling asleep or remaining asleep, try regular and moderate exercise, relaxation techniques and/or establishing a regular sleep routine which might improve sleeping.
Watch the Weight! As more and more years go by, even small weight gains begin to add up. Ditching the exercise as well as the salads during winter is not a good idea. Tempting as it is to hide behind bulky winter clothes, you’ll be much healthier if you stick with your exercise plan and a healthy diet year around.
Boost your immunity. Although it’s important year around, winter time has its own difficulties with colds and influenza. Supplements containing herbs and nutrients such as echinacea, garlic, vitamin C, and zinc will help to support healthy immune function.
Next week, we’ll talk about some other ways to stay healthy in winter! What is the most important item you’ve found that keeps you healthy in the cold weather?
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